Method and apparatus for quick change of events associated with a multi-use amphitheater/sports complex

ABSTRACT

Herein described is a multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that greatly increases profits, as the timeframe for breakdown/setup has been substantially reduced. Furthermore, a novel seating arrangement is provided including a bulletproof glass floor that allows for viewing there through. Also, the events and all associated instructions for rapid interchange are calculated and controlled by a computer. Thus, many different types of shows, sports events, etc., can be rapidly interchanged resulting in the capability of scheduling many more events than previously attainable.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of PPA Ser. No. 60/879,202 filed Jan. 8, 2007 by the present inventor and the frammis vane disclosed in my U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,428 granted Mar. 7, 2006.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates in general to a method and apparatus that allows for a multi-use amphitheater/sports complex to be quickly converted for various events/shows. More specifically the method and apparatus is much more cost effective and allows for quick conversion that heretofore has not been attained. The present method/apparatus may be used for any type of event/show including the required conversion details that are controlled by computer programming. Thus, the overall complex is most efficient and extremely cost effective because the time for setup has been greatly reduced. The present invention allows for more events and/or shows to be interchanged rapidly thus saving many man-hours and generating much more income than previously attainable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Within the past numerous attempts have been made to provide a complex that can be used for multiple entertainment purposes such as for the performing arts, sport events, conventions, etc. However, such attempts have proven to be much too costly due to the fact that the time involved for changing the stage and settings is much too time consuming and complicated. For example, in most of these types of complexes it may take many hours and/or days to change the stage and/or associated playing field. As a result, such complexes have not proven successful and/or economically feasible.

It can be seen that there is a need for a method and apparatus that can be incorporated into a large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that eliminates problems and costs associated with current complexes of this type.

Within the known prior art, there have been attempts to resolve these issues but to no avail as yet. Examples of such prior art include U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,863,126, 4,934,113, and 3,399,887. However, each reference has various problems and they are simply not efficient and/or cost effective.

The present invention incorporates use of my issued U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,428 of which is an important component that is used in combination with the present invention. The '428 patent is a device having multiple support members telescopically contained therein, with each member having a set of lights, a set of curtains and various compartments for numerous stage accessories and allows for quick change of the lights and curtains that are used for different sized stage settings. The '428 patent has proven to be most efficient and when combined with the present method and apparatus provides a novel and new multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that is extremely cost effective.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that can serve as a superb landmark or focal point for a major city and also to provide an effective economic engine that is capable of creating tremendous economic growth. The complex is extremely large and can be easily used for the Olympics or the like. For example the complex requires approximately 40 acres or more.

Another object of the invention is to provide a cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that will pay for itself within a very short time frame because of the calculated financial/economic advantages.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a unique large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that is a magnificent functional structure of tremendous potential that could have a major economic impact on a large metropolitan area.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that is simplified and the events and/or shows are pre-scheduled and organized by computer programming and skilled workers.

Still another object is to provide a cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that includes a highly improved seating arrangement that greatly increases seating capacity. Namely, the complex includes numerous levels and/or skyboxes each of which are constructed with clear, high-impact plastic and/or bulletproof glass walls. The unusual results are mainly achieved because a patron can see the game through the glass floor and/or walls. Whereby, the entire dome structure can be utilized for seating and viewing.

Yet another object is to provide a cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that is designed with safety as a priority. The security room will include surveillance cameras for overall viewing of the entire complex. Not to mention a 24-hour full security force will be provided.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a cost-effective large multi-use amphitheater/sports complex that accomplishes new and novel end results, that heretofore has not been attainable.

Operation/Method of Use

In operation, the entire sequence of events are controlled and organized by a computer as programmed by a technician in combination with skilled personnel. The computer as programmed has all pertinent information including sequence of events, the estimated time for changing from one event to another, the exact location of various activity floors, instructions for personnel for interchanging activity floors, etc., and the computer is also interconnected to a display board that is viewable by all personnel at all times.

Upon receiving information for scheduling a desired event, such as the time, date, expected occupancy, etc., the information is calculated by the computer/program/operator to determine if the event can be successfully completed within the existing timeframe and scheduled events. The computer also determines if there are any specific requirements for the event that must be addressed in a timely manner before the event occurs. For example, if there is a need for special lighting, any gimmicks, specialized activity floor, repairs of any existing actively floors, etc. If the event cannot be scheduled on the specific time/date as requested, the computer calculates an alternative schedule and presents this to the requesting party for acceptance or denial. If the event can be scheduled then the requesting party is notified and the event is scheduled accordingly.

All personnel are instructed by the computer (and/or any supervisors) as to what procedures must be completed in a timely manner for success of the desired event. Upon each employee receiving their instructions for the day, they can each then initiate work accordingly.

For clarity purposes, the following is an example of the steps involved for converting the current activity floor into the next scheduled activity floor. In this case, the employees are converting the main activity floor from an ice hockey floor into a basketball floor. The general steps for converting are as follows:

-   -   a. when the hockey game is over and while the people are         existing the building, the computer locates the basketball         activity floor;     -   b. the computer informs personnel as to which storage area the         basketball activity floor is currently being stored and to         retrieve it;     -   c. the hockey ice rink is located on the main activity floor;     -   d. personnel are instructed to inspect the floor for any damage         that need be repaired;     -   e. if repair is needed personnel are instructed to transport the         floor to the storage area, then outward through the exit path         and deliver to the maintenance facility;     -   f. if repair is not needed personnel are instructed to remove         the ice hockey floor and transport it to a specified storage         area for later use;     -   g. in this case the scoreboard would remain for the next event,         if however the event were a concert or the like, the score board         would then be removed and transported to a specified storage         area;     -   h. personnel are instructed to install the basketball activity         floor and prepare for the basketball game accordingly.

It is to be understood the above is only an example of the steps initiated for one scenario, as each event will have variable steps as determined by the computer and personnel.

It is to be further understood that the present complex is very large and can accommodate any type of sports event or show and due to the arrangement of the various components and the facility, rapid change of events/shows are possible.

Other objects, uses and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the drawings and the brief description as follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top internal overhead view representing an overall plan of operation and/or configuration for the amphitheater/sports complex.

FIG. 2 is a side view depicting hydraulic lifts and plan of operation.

FIGS. 3-A & 3-B are each an end view of a storage area depicting various activity floors and/or pods when positioned therein.

FIG. 4 is a partial side view depicting a novel seating arrangement, various levels and/or skyboxes within the complex.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram representing computer operational parameters.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now in detail to the drawings wherein like characters refer to like elements therein. It is to be understood the actual mechanics of each of the components are not described herein in detail as the overall invention incorporates a computer, elevators, hydraulics, electronics, motors, etc., all of which technology is well known and provided within the prior art, respectively.

Referring now in general to FIG. 1, wherein (10) represents a general aerial overview depicting one possible configuration and internal construction for the above ground portion (12) of the amphitheater/sports complex (14). As can be seen, in this embodiment the complex (14) is substantially in the shape of a dome. However it is to be noted that the dome is only exemplary and the invention is not to be limited to any specific shape or size. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the complex (14) is only partially depictive, as the top exterior section and variable levels are not illustrated for clarity purposes. Whereby, it is to be understood FIG. 1 is for conceptual purposes.

The amphitheater/sports complex (14) includes standard features such as numerous sets of bleachers (16), numerous entrances (18), numerous exits (20), numerous restroom facilities (22), at least one broadcast box (24), mega suits (26), penthouses (28), elevators (30) and stairs (32). All of which are only partially shown for clarity purposes. Thus it is to be understood various combinations of these features (depending upon engineering choice) are to be inherent within the invention. Also, other standard features include lights, cameras, security booths, display screens, display booths, novelty shops, a childcare center, etc (not shown). Whereby, the invention is not to be limited to these specific features and/or restricted combinations thereof.

With further reference to FIG. 1, the amphitheater/sports complex (14) as depicted therein illustrates some of the novel and new features of the invention. Namely, in combination, a main hydraulic lift (34), a center hydraulic lift (36), a vertical telescopic stage (38), one or multiple first storage area(s) (40), one or multiple second storage area(s) (42), one or multiple exit path(s) (44) and transparent skyboxes (66). It is to be noted each of the lifts (34 & 36), storage areas (40 & 42) and the exit paths (44) are depicted in ghost lines as these components are located within the below ground portion of the complex (14).

As previously mentioned the amphitheater/sports complex (14) further includes use of my issued U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,428, namely a vertical stage (38). The vertical stage (38) is positioned above the main hydraulic lift (34) and/or center hydraulic lift (36) and used in combination therewith, respectively. Whereby, the lifts (34 & 36) with the vertical stage (38) in combination provide the overall scenario for the performance where the main events occur, such as a sports game, a concert, a play, etc.

It is to be understood the '428 patent provides numerous accessories of engineering choice, such as all the components necessary for stage operation. Examples include lights, curtains, explosives, laser lights, confetti fireworks, fluid, flowers, balloons, streamers, speakers, sound effects, a scoreboard, etc.

For further clarity the lifts (34 & 36)) are more clearly illustrated within FIG. 2 which is a side view thereof respectively. Wherein (46) represents the hydraulics associated with lifts (34 & 36) for vertical positioning of the lifts between variable positions. To more clearly define, a part of each lift is located in the below ground portion (48) and the bottom of each lift is buried within the underground portion or earth (50).

Further depicted in FIG. 2, phantom lines illustrate various positions for each of the lifts (34 & 36). Namely, (34-A) represents a first raised position for each lift in combination. Whereby, the main hydraulic lift (34) is adjustably operatively inline with the center lift (36) and an intermediate portion (52) located between the above ground portion (12) and the below ground portion (48). A second variable position for the main hydraulic lift (34) with the center lift (36) in combination is illustrated at (34-B). Whereby the main hydraulic lift (34) and the center hydraulic lift (36) are each adjustably operatively inline with the second storage areas (42). A third lowered position for the main hydraulic lift (34) with the center lift (36) in combination is illustrated at (34-C). Wherein the main hydraulic lift (34) and the center hydraulic lift (36) when combined are each positioned above the underground portion or earth (50), respectively. Whereby, when the main hydraulic lift (34) when operated either independently or in combination with the center lift (36), the main lift (34) functions to slidably receive thereon one of the various activity floors from either one of the second storage area(s) (42) and then can vertically transport the floor into proper position inline with the intermediate portion (52) beneath the vertical telescopic stage (38). Thus it is to be understood that the main lift (34) and the center lift (36) are operable independently or in combination and variably adjustable between the first raised position (34-A) and the third lowered position (34-C).

Referring now to the variable adjustable positions for the center hydraulic lift (36) of which includes a first raised position (36-A). Wherein the center hydraulic lift (36) is adjustably operatively inline with the main hydraulic lift (34). The center hydraulic lift (36) includes a second position illustrated at (36-B). Wherein the center hydraulic lift (36) is operatively positioned just below the first raised position 34-A. Whereby, when one of the various activity floors (later defined) is positioned on top of the center hydraulic lift (36), the various activity floor is level/flush with the main hydraulic lift (34). The center lift (36) includes a third position illustrated at (36-C). Wherein the center hydraulic lift (36) is independently operatively inline with the first storage area (40). Whereby, when the center hydraulic lift (36) is independently adjusted it functions to slidably receive thereon one of the various activity floors from the first storage area (40) and then can vertically transport the floor into proper position inline with the intermediate portion (52) beneath the vertical telescopic stage (38). The center lift (36) includes a fourth position illustrated at (36-D). Wherein the center hydraulic lift (36) is independently operatively inline with the main hydraulic lift (34) when in its third lowered position (34-C).

Referring now to FIGS. 3-A “wherein depicted is an end view of one of the first storage areas (40)” and 3-B “wherein depicted is an end view of one of the second storage areas (42)”. It is to be noted FIGS. 3-A & 3-B only partially depict the height of the storage areas (40 & 42), as the height thereof is dependant upon engineering choice. Each of the storage areas (40) being located in alignment with the center hydraulic lift (36) as depicted in FIGS. 1 & 2. Each of the storage areas (42) being located in alignment with the main hydraulic lift (34) as depicted in FIGS. 1 & 2. Each of the storage areas (40 & 42) are constructed to removably slidably, contain various activity floors (58) therein. Storage areas (40) are formed from a support structure (54) and storage areas (42) are formed from a support structure (55). Support structures (54 & 55) have adjustable horizontal support rails (56). The support rails (56) function to support various activity floors (58) or pods (60) thereon and each one of the various activity floors (58) and each of the pods (60) are slidably removable from within each support structure (54 & 55) via any suitable attachment means, such as electric mule hookups (60) or the like. It is to be noted that any suitable type of adjustable support rails, attachment means and/or motors or the like can be used depending on engineering choice, as such technology for slidably moving large objects is very well known within the prior art. Thus the attachment means and/or motors are not shown, as they are not unique to the claimed invention.

It can now be seen that the first storage areas (40) are suitable for storage of smaller sized activity floors (58) or pods (60) associated with smaller events/shows, such as those used for plays, boxing, etc. While the second storage areas (42) are suitable for storage of the larger sized activity floors (58) and/or pods (60), such as the activity floors that are either, an ice rink, a basketball court, a wood activity floor, a grass activity floor, a multipurpose activity floor, a dirt activity floor, a pool tennis court, etc. Further optional features to be noted include trap doors (not shown) or the like that are incorporated into particular activity floors to allow for special effects. For example, the trap doors may be small allowing for an object/person to miraculously appear such as during a magic show. Other trap doors may be extremely large so as to allow for an elephant or the like to be delivered to the performance area, such as during a circus performance or the like.

As previously noted, at least one of the second storage areas (42) is in open communication with the exit path (44). This is very important as this allows for any of the various activity floors (58) to be removed from the complex (14) (via the exit path 44) and delivered to the maintenance/fabrication facility via a trailer (not shown) or by any other suitable transport means.

It is to be noted that each of the storage areas (40 & 42) may further include additional equipment that is necessary for specialized floors. For example, in FIG. 3-B, (70) maybe a refrigeration unit or the like that is functional for maintaining the ice hockey rink at a predetermined temperature. Other additional equipment may include a sprinkler device (72) or the like for maintaining a grass activity floor. Furthermore, with reference to the pods (60) they are functional for containment of prearranged accessories necessary and associated with a specified event. For example, one pod may include accessories that are specifically associated with a particular play or the like. Whereby, the pod when delivered to the performance area provides the personnel with all the equipment necessary for complete assembly and setup for the event.

Referring now to FIG. 4, wherein depicted is a novel seating arrangement and various levels within the complex. It is to be understood FIG. 4 is only conceptual of one possible configuration/arrangement for the complex as this is dependant upon engineering choice, thus the invention is not to be limited to this specific illustration as this is only exemplary. As depicted and previously noted the complex (14) includes numerous sets of bleachers (16), numerous entrances (18), numerous exits (20), stairs (32), numerous restroom facilities (22) and at least one broadcast box (24). Note that the standard features (18, 20, 22, 24 and 32) are only depicted in FIG. 1 for clarity purposes. As previously noted the complex (14) also includes mega suits (26), penthouses (28) and elevators (30). A novel and new feature for the present invention is to include a seating arrangement (64) that is formed within skyboxes (66). The skyboxes are novel and unique as they are made from clear high-impact material, (such as bulletproof glass or plastic) that allows viewing there through. Whereby, providing increased seating capacity and complete use of the internal upper space of the complex. The sky boxes (66) are constructed to extend outwardly above the performance area, respectively. This is extremely important as nowhere within the known prior art has the bulletproof glass/plastic been used within an amphitheater complex as a skybox in this manner for viewing there through.

Referring now to FIG. 5 of which is a block diagram representing some of the computer operational parameters. Wherein the computer receives a request for a specific event, the computer denies/confirms if the event can be scheduled for the desired date. If denied, reschedules, confirms and informs the requesting party that the event is scheduled. If confirmed, the computer informs the requesting party that the event is scheduled and schedules the event. When scheduled the computer determines all requirements for the event and then informs/instructs all personnel of their daily duties via a display board. The computer is constantly communicating with the maintenance/fabrication facility and constantly updates maintenance/fabrication requirements and informs/instructs personnel as to their daily duties. The computer constantly updates locations for all activity floors. The computer is constantly in communication with the security department via security cameras. The computer constantly displays current activities, jobs, requirements, timeframes, etc., via a display board and also controls all of the big screen monitors during the events. It is to be understood the computer may monitor and control numerous other information depending on engineering choice.

It can now be seen herein taught and presented is a new and novel multi-use amphitheater/sports complex having great potential for economy and is most profitable when compared to any of the prior art. Thus, new and unusual results are now attainable due to the method of use and components in combination.

Although the invention has been herein shown and described in what is conceived to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is recognized that departures may be made there from within the scope and spirit of the invention, which is not to be limited to the details disclosed herein but is to be accorded the full scope of the claims so as to embrace any and all equivalent devices and apparatuses. 

1. An amphitheater/sports complex comprising in combination: a vertical telescopic stage; a main lift; a center lift; at least a first storage area; at least a second storage area; at least one exit path; various activity floors; and a computer; said amphitheater/sports complex having an above ground portion, an intermediate portion, a below ground portion and an underground portion, said vertical telescopic stage being adjustably positioned above said main lift, said main lift is adjustably operatively inline with said center lift and said intermediate portion, said center lift is adjustably operatively inline with said at least a first storage area, said main lift is adjustably operatively inline with said at least a second storage area, each said storage area removably slidably contains said various activity floors, at least one said storage area is in open communication with said exit path, said main lift and said center lift are operable independently or in combination, said center lift when operated independently functions to slidably receive thereon one of said various activity floors from said at least a first storage area then vertically transport one of said various activity floors into proper position inline with said intermediate portion beneath said vertical telescopic stage, said main lift when operated independently or in combination with said center lift functions to slidably receive thereon one of said various activity floors from said at least a second storage area then vertically transport one of said various activity floors into proper position inline with said intermediate portion beneath said vertical telescopic stage and said computer is interconnected to a display board that is viewable by personnel.
 2. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 further includes a maintenance/fabrication facility.
 3. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein said above ground portion further includes bleachers, entrances, exits, broadcast box and restroom facilities.
 4. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein said above ground portion further includes a seating arrangement that is formed from skyboxes, skyboxes are made from clear high-impact material that allow viewing there through, whereby providing increased seating and complete use of the internal upper space of said complex.
 5. The amphitheater/sports complex of claims 1 & 4 wherein said complex is a dome and said seating arrangement within said dome includes mega suits and penthouse(s) that are accessible by stairs/elevators.
 6. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein said computer is programmed having all pertinent information including scheduling of events, sequence of events, estimated time for changing from one event to another, exact location of said various activity floors and instructions for said personnel for interchanging said various activity floors.
 7. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein each said storage area comprising: a support structure having adjustable horizontal support rails therein for support of said various activity floors thereon and each one of said various activity floors being slidably removable from within said support structure.
 8. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 7 wherein said horizontal support rails support at least one pod thereon and said at least one pod being slidably removable from within said support structure.
 9. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 8 wherein said at least one pod contains prearranged accessories necessary and associated with a specified event.
 10. The amphitheater/sports complex of claim 1 wherein said various activity floors include each being either, an ice rink, a basketball court, a wood activity floor, a grass activity floor, a multipurpose activity floor, a dirt activity floor, a tennis court, or a pool.
 11. Method steps for converting a first activity floor associated with a first event into a second activity floor associated with a second event comprising the steps of: a. personnel are informed as to the specific location of said second activity floor; b. personnel are informed to retrieve said second activity floor; c. personnel are informed to inspect said first activity floor which is located on a main lift, if said first activity floor is damaged then transport said first activity floor to a maintenance/fabrication facility; if said first activity floor is not damaged then transport said first activity floor to a storage area for later use; and; d. personnel are instructed to transport/install said second activity floor to said main lift and prepare for said second event. 